Alamogordo NM
4-23-2026 5:35am

Voices of Alamogordo: Jena Matise – From Grief to Advocacy, A Mother’s Fight for Justice, Healing, and Domestic Abuse Awareness

Alamogordo, NM — In the latest installment of the Voices of Alamogordo series on KALH Radio and Alamogordo Town News, community advocate and activist Jena Matise (also known as Jena Hamryszak) shares her powerful personal journey of loss, resilience, and unwavering commitment to child advocacy and domestic violence prevention.

The interview, streamed live, highlights Matise’s transformation from a grieving mother into a vocal community leader. Her story begins with the heartbreaking loss of her son, David Shjan Tomsik, who died by suicide while in custody at the Otero County Detention Center. That tragedy became the catalyst for her activism.

A Mother’s Quest for Change

Devastated by her son’s death, Matise channeled her grief into action. She advocated tirelessly for improved safety measures at the county jail, including the successful push for full-body contraband scanning machines. Those scanners are now operational and state-certified — a direct result of her persistence and collaboration with jail officials, county commissioners, and law enforcement.

“I made a promise to my son in my final goodbye,” Matise shared in past writings and echoed in the interview. “To find out what went so horribly wrong.” Her efforts have helped shine a light on issues like drug trafficking, staffing shortages, and suicides in local detention facilities, contributing to ongoing reforms.

Survivor and Voice for the Silenced

Matise also speaks openly about her experiences with domestic abuse — both from childhood and as an adult during her grief journey. She describes emotional and mental abuse that intensified after her son’s death, including gaslighting and isolation, even within family and community settings. Her courage in sharing these realities has amplified awareness during Domestic Violence Awareness Month and beyond.

As a child advocate, Matise has addressed bullying in schools, family court challenges, and the need for stronger protections for children and survivors. She is currently working on a memoir that details her path from trauma to empowerment, offering hope and practical insights for others facing similar struggles.

Community Impact and Resources

Matise’s work aligns with broader local efforts by organizations like COPE, Inc., which provides shelter, legal advocacy, and counseling for domestic violence survivors in Otero and Lincoln Counties. Her story underscores the importance of community support, media amplification, and individual voices in driving systemic change.

Watch the full interview here:

Voices of Alamogordo with Jena Matise

In the conversation, Matise encourages listeners to speak out, seek help, and support one another. She thanks key community partners, including Otero County officials, law enforcement, and local media, for standing with her mission.   She will be at the courthouse Saturday 2pm for a rally to bring awareness to childhood safety and domestic abuse. Bring signs and a survivor and join her. 

The Voices of Alamogordo series continues to spotlight everyday residents making a difference. Tune in to KALH Radio and follow 2nd Life Media / Alamogordo Town News for more inspiring stories that reflect the heartbeat of our community.

Resources for Help:

• COPE, Inc. (Domestic Violence Support) – copedv.com

• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233

• Mental Health Support: Dial 988

For ongoing coverage, visit AlamogordoTownNews.org or listen live on KALH Radio.

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